Autism-MMR link and a public hearing

For years, the fear that MMR vaccines cause autism has caused parents to forego giving the immunization to their infants. The myth started when a small study in 1899 suggested that the measles component in the MMR vaccine caused inflammation in the bowel, which released chemicals that promoted the development of autism in young children.

Now, almost 20 studies later, the research consistently shows – the MMR vaccine is not linked, nor does it cause autism. The supposed link is simply an unfortunate coincidence. Autism usually develops between the first and second birthday, at the same period that children are administered MMR shots. The latest study to publish in PLos ONE shows that there is just no link whatsoever.

Will these results close the book on this myth? Not likely. The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program is still hearing over 4,900 legal cases related to the vaccine-autism controversy. In fact, today and tomorrow September 4 and 5, the Advisory Commission on Childhood Vaccines is having a public meeting and interested persons can join the meeting via audio conference. Details provided here.

image:flickr